Speed News Vol. 1 Issue 3 : Page 53
MAZDASPEED3 No discussion of practical performance can leave out the MAZDASPEED3. Afford-able, economical and a blast to drive, this little wagon practically defi nes the term. The 2.3-liter turbocharged MZR engine is a rev-happy little buzzsaw that produces prodigious power for its size. The nearly 43 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down means plenty of room for tires, jacks and all the other accoutrements for a day at the track. You’ll have enjoyed that day thanks not only to the power, but also the stiff chassis, fi rm suspension and big foot-print. Mazda has attempted to rein in the torque steer associated with gobs of power going through the front wheels by limiting boost in lower gears, related to steering angle. It’s a valiant effort, even if it doesn’t quite do the job. But it doesn’t cut down on the joys of driving this little car. No wonder it’s smiling. MSRP: $24,000 POWER/TORQUE: 263hp/280lb.-ft. WEIGHT: 3281lbs. 0-60: 6.2 seconds EPA COMBINED MILEAGE 21mpg SEATS: 5 53
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